Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine-textured grain with a diffuse-porous structure; typically flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral patterns and uniform surface texture.
Color Description
Sapwood is creamy white to pale yellow; heartwood is typically light olive green to yellowish brown. It is known to darken to a brown or reddish-brown upon exposure to UV light. The sample shows typical greenish-grey mineral streaks.
Hardness Rating
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if used in outdoor or damp conditions.
Common Uses
Light construction, furniture framing, cabinetry interiors, moldings, trim, plywood, and crates. Frequently used as a paint-grade wood.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Secondary growth timber; the board appears to be modern stock (0-5 years post-milling) based on lack of deep oxidation and modern planer marks.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and considered one of the most sustainable hardwoods in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, and sands easily, though it can be somewhat "fuzzy" if tools are not sharp. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often contains distinct green or purple mineral streaks in the heartwood. It is lightweight for a hardwood and has very little scent when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for paint or solid stains due to its color variation. If clear-coated, a UV-inhibiting polyurethane is recommended to slow the transition from green to brown.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic light greenish-yellow hue combined with the tight, diffuse-porous grain and soft texture is diagnostic of Poplar.